9 Home Habits That Could Risk Your Family’s Safety (Without You Knowing)

Forgetting to Lock Doors and Windows

Many people feel safe at home and develop a habit of leaving doors and windows unlocked, especially during the day or when stepping out briefly. However, recent FBI crime data shows that over 30% of burglaries in 2023 involved entry through unlocked doors or windows. Criminals often target neighborhoods where residents are known to be careless about locking up, and it takes just seconds for them to slip inside. Even upper-floor windows can be vulnerable, as intruders have been reported to bring ladders or climb balconies. According to a National Crime Prevention Council survey from 2024, families who consistently lock doors and windows reduce their risk of burglary by more than 50%. Simple habits like locking up, even when you’re home, can make a significant difference. It’s a small step that’s proven to have a huge impact on family safety.

Overloading Electrical Outlets

Plugging too many devices into the same outlet or power strip is a hidden danger in many homes. The U.S. Fire Administration reported in 2024 that overloaded outlets contribute to more than 5,000 house fires annually. Many families don’t realize that using extension cords and power strips beyond their rated capacity can quickly overheat wires and spark electrical fires. Modern homes are packed with gadgets, but most outlets aren’t designed for the heavy use they now endure. The Consumer Product Safety Commission warns against plugging high-wattage appliances, like space heaters and microwaves, into the same outlet as other devices. These fires often start behind furniture or in hidden corners, giving little warning before they get out of control. Being mindful of how many items you plug in can quietly protect your home from disaster.

Ignoring Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Maintenance

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms save lives, but only if they’re working. The National Fire Protection Association reported in late 2023 that nearly 40% of home fire deaths happened in homes without functional alarms. Many families forget to check batteries or replace alarms after their expiration date, assuming they’ll always work. Carbon monoxide, in particular, is a silent killer—its presence is undetectable without a working alarm. A 2024 CDC report highlighted that accidental CO poisoning sent over 20,000 Americans to the emergency room last year, with many incidents linked to faulty or missing detectors. Testing alarms monthly and replacing batteries twice a year is a simple habit that can prevent tragedy. Skipping this step, even for a few months, can leave your family exposed to deadly risks.

Storing Cleaning Products Within Children’s Reach

It’s easy to stash cleaning sprays, detergents, and medications under the kitchen sink or in low cabinets. But poison control centers in the U.S. received over 3 million calls in 2024 about children accidentally ingesting household substances, according to the American Association of Poison Control Centers. Young kids are naturally curious and quick; a moment’s distraction can lead to a dangerous situation. Even products labeled as “natural” or “eco-friendly” can be harmful if swallowed or spilled on skin. Experts recommend locking cabinets or using childproof latches, especially in homes with toddlers or preschoolers. The CDC emphasizes that storing hazardous products high up or in locked storage cuts accidental poisoning cases by over 70%. Taking a few extra seconds to secure these items can make the difference between a safe home and an emergency room visit.

Letting Mail and Packages Pile Up

A stack of uncollected mail or packages signals to would-be thieves that no one is home. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service reported a 25% increase in package thefts in 2024 compared to the previous year. Burglars often “case” neighborhoods and look for signs of absence, like overflowing mailboxes or packages on porches. Even if you’re just busy or away for a weekend, the risk grows quickly. Home insurance companies have noted that theft claims spike during holidays and long weekends, when unattended deliveries are most common. Simple steps like asking a neighbor to collect your mail or using package lockers can make your home look lived-in and less appealing to criminals. It’s an easy detail to overlook, but it has real consequences for home security.

Not Securing Heavy Furniture and TVs

Unanchored furniture and televisions can be deadly, especially for families with small children or pets. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported in 2023 that tip-over incidents send nearly 19,000 people to emergency rooms each year, most of them children under six. Heavy bookcases, dressers, and flat-screen TVs can fall with little warning if climbed on or bumped. Even a minor earthquake or rambunctious play can cause a top-heavy piece to topple. Safety experts recommend anchoring furniture to the wall with inexpensive brackets or straps, which takes only a few minutes. This simple precaution can prevent life-threatening accidents that happen in an instant but have lifelong consequences.

Leaving Candles or Cooking Unattended

Leaving candles burning or food cooking on the stove, even for a short time, is a leading cause of home fires. The National Fire Protection Association’s 2024 report found that unattended cooking caused nearly half of all reported kitchen fires, resulting in thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths. Candles, too, are a surprising hazard—over 7,000 home fires each year are started by unattended or knocked-over candles. Many people underestimate how quickly a fire can start and spread, with flames doubling in size every minute. Experts urge families to never leave the room while cooking and to blow out candles before leaving or sleeping. It’s a habit that’s easy to overlook but has devastating consequences if ignored.

Hiding Spare Keys Outside

Many families believe hiding a spare key under a doormat, flowerpot, or fake rock is a clever safety net. Yet, a recent 2025 survey by home security firms showed that 34% of break-ins involved keys found in obvious outdoor hiding spots. Burglars know all the classic tricks and often check for hidden keys before attempting forced entry. With smart locks and keyless entry systems widely available, there are now safer alternatives than hiding a key outside. If you must use a spare, experts recommend leaving it with a trusted neighbor or investing in a lockbox with a secure code. Relying on “secret” hiding places is a risk that often backfires, making entry for intruders laughably easy.

Neglecting Outdoor Lighting

Poorly lit exteriors make your home a target for crime after dark. According to the 2024 National Crime Victimization Survey, homes with little or no outdoor lighting were twice as likely to be burglarized compared to well-lit properties. Motion-activated lights and illuminated walkways not only deter criminals but also reduce the risk of trips and falls for family members and guests. Many people delay installing outdoor lighting due to perceived cost or effort, but LED technology has made these solutions affordable and energy efficient. Local police departments frequently encourage residents to use dusk-to-dawn lights, especially in entryways and driveways. A few extra lights can transform your home from an easy target into a much safer haven.